Samal is served by just a single airport, Francisco Bangoy Intl. Airport (DVO).

If you’re staying in central Samal, it’s a good idea to arrange how you’ll get into the city before you land. The downtown area is 13 kilometres from DVO.

With one main airport operating in Samal, it won’t take much time to find the best flight. You’ll be taking off to Francisco Bangoy Intl. Airport (DVO), which is located around 13 kilometres from the downtown area.

Samal is serviced by 6 airlines from 8 airports across the globe.

Cebu Pacific Air, Philippine Airlines and Philippines AirAsia are the most frequent fliers to Samal. The majority of these flights come in from Manila, with Cebu Pacific Air offering the most services on this route.

With roughly 252 nonstop flights every week, you’ll be landing in Samal before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

Travelers often depart from Manila, Singapore and Mabalacat City airports when going to Samal.

If you’re going to Samal from Manila, you’re looking at a flight duration of 2 hours. Those departing from Lapu-Lapu can expect to be airborne for 1 hour and 12 minutes. From Singapore it’s approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes away.

If you’d like to have some extra spending money on your trip to Samal, listen up! As every experienced traveler knows, avoid booking at the last minute. Fares are often highest close to the departure date. Also, do some online research and compare your options. If your destination has more than one airport, you may be able to nab a better deal by flying into a smaller terminal. Lastly, another easy way to save some money is be ready to book fast. If you find an irresistible bargain, don’t hold off — grab it while the opportunity’s there.

Wherever you’re coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you’ve prepared well enough. We’ve compiled a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your Samal escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right gear. First of all you’ll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Next, leave space in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don’t forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of an airplane are no fashion runway. Layer up with comfortable clothing and don’t forget to bring a sweater as it tends to get cool inside the cabin. Flat, enclosed shoes are also a wise idea.
• The serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Doing regular leg and foot exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this developing. Wearing a good pair of compression socks or tights is also recommended.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you’ll be stepping onto that plane to Samal in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They’ll be the first things you’ll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you’ll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don’t forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you’re less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won’t be allowed on board.